“Please tell the General,” said Hopper, “that his neighboring countries have invited United Nations scientists to help them locate the source of contamination, and if he refuses my team’s entry into Mali, he will be scorned and lose face among the nations of the world.”

Mansa made no reply and left the stifling room.

While he waited, Hopper gave Captain Batutta his best intimidating stare. Batutta locked eyes for a few moments, but then turned away and began pacing the room.

After about five minutes, Mansa returned and sat down at the desk. Without a word, he precisely stamped each passport and then passed them to Hopper. “You have been allowed to enter Mali to conduct your research. But please remember, Doctor, you and your people are guests here. No more. If you make unkind statements or take part in any action detrimental to security, you will be deported.”

“Thank you, Colonel. And please thank General Kazim for his kind permission.”

“You will be accompanied by Captain Batutta and ten of his men for your protection.”

“I’m honored to have a bodyguard.”

“You will also report your findings directly to me. I expect your full cooperation in this matter-“

“How will I report from the hinterland?”

“The Captain’s unit will carry the necessary communications equipment.”

“We should get along handsomely,” Hopper said loftily to Batutta. He turned back to Mansa. “My team and I will need a car, preferably a four-wheel-drive, for personnel and two lorries to transport our laboratory gear.”

Colonel Mansa’s face reddened. “I will arrange for military vehicles.”

Hopper was well aware that it was important for the Colonel to save face and have the last word. “Thank you, Colonel Mansa. You are a generous and honorable man. General Kazim must be very proud to have a true warrior of the desert at his side.”

Mansa leaned back, a growing look of triumph and satisfaction in his eyes. “Yes, the General has often expressed gratitude for my loyalty and service.”

The interview was over, and Hopper returned to the aircraft and directed the unloading of the cargo. Mansa watched from the window of the terminal office, a faint smile on his lips.

“Shall I restrict their investigation to unclassified areas?” asked Batutta.

Mansa slowly shook his head without turning. “No, allow them to go wherever they wish.”

“And if Dr. Hopper finds signs of toxic sickness?”

“No matter. As long as I control communications with the outside world his reports will be altered to show our country lo be clean of illness, and hazardous wastes.”

“But when they return to the UN headquarters-“

“Won’t the true findings be exposed?” Mansa finished. “Yes, most certainly.” He swung around suddenly, his expression menacing. “But not if their aircraft tragically meets with an accident during the return flight.”

<<10>>